When a town has ‘lake’ in it’s name, it better give off a solid water vibe. Saranac Lake doesn’t disappoint. It is smack dab in the center of the Adirondack Park’s 30,000 miles of paddling routes. The village is surrounded by the Saranac chain of lakes, tons of smaller bodies of water, and the nearby St. Regis Canoe Area.
Saranac Lake has ‘right out your backdoor’ paddling abundance. You can begin and end your day on the water right from downtown. Lake Flower is the show piece in the middle of town, a result of damming the Saranac River that runs through town and connects to the Saranac chain. It is a daily reminder how connected you are to the water, if you listen closely you can hear it calling you.
To help you get on the water when the paddling season unofficially kicks off, several outfitters and organizations in the Saranac Lake region have teamed up to offer a variety of paddling-related activities and events each June. Dubbed Celebrate Paddling ADK, this series offers everything from armchair adventures and trivia nights on select weeknights, to on-the-water events such as the Adirondack SUP Festival and guided moonlight trips. Celebrate Paddling is a joint effort of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, Adirondack Lakes and Trails Outfitters, St. Regis Canoe Outfitters, and MAC's Canoe Livery.
Here is a message from the organizers regarding the 2020 Celebrate Paddling ADK events:
"The goal of Celebrate Paddling ADK is in the name — it's an occasion to acknowledge the incredible role that paddling plays in communities across the Adirondacks and the Northern Forest as a whole. Paddling supports local economies, strengthens our bond with nature and keeps us physically and mentally healthy.
The realities and uncertainties associated with COVID-19 mean that this year's Celebrate Paddling month will shift to a dispersed set of activities. Already, we know that some of the bigger events like the Adirondack SUP Festival and the Raquette River Clean-Up Day won't be happening. Much of this year's schedule is in flux as we try to establish what activities are allowed under current New York State COVID guidance. We promise to keep you in the loop; follow Celebrate Paddling ADK on Facebook for updates, or visit CelebratePaddlingADK.com."
For a taste of what Celebrate Paddling typically entails, check out the 2019 lineup.
2019 Schedule of Events
Saturday, June 1
"Get Familiar with the Area" Paddling Trip for Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Members
The “Get Familiar with the Area” Paddling Trips are designed to introduce Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce members and their front-line tourism employees to what is available for outdoor recreation on the water in our back yard. This is a perfect opportunity to get your staff excited for the summer season! We will meet at MAC’S Canoe Livery in Lake Clear at 3:00pm and explore area waterways, we'll return back around 6:00pm. Each trip is limited to 12 people. Price is $25/per person and includes canoe rental and guide.
Monday, June 3
"Get Familiar with the Area" Paddling Trip for Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Members
The “Get Familiar with the Area” Paddling Trips are designed to introduce Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce members and their front-line tourism employees to what is available for outdoor recreation on the water in our back yard. This is a perfect opportunity to get your staff excited for the summer season! We will meet at MAC’S Canoe Livery in Lake Clear at 3:00pm and explore area waterways, we'll return back around 6:00pm. Each trip is limited to 12 people. Price is $25/per person and includes canoe rental and guide.
Tuesday, June 4
Team Paddling Clinic/Upper Saranac Lake Tour
Paddle in a 4- or 8-person canoe with the MAC’S Canoe Livery crew. We’ll meet at MAC’s Canoe Livery in Lake Clear, then explore Upper Saranac lake. Clinic will run 5:30-7:00pm. $40 per paddler boats included. Advanced Reservations are Required
Tuesday, June 4
Adirondack & Paddlesports Trivia Night
Questions will be based on anything related to paddlesports, as well as Adirondack waterbodies. Get your team together now. Bitters and Bones. 7 p.m.
Wednesday, June 5
Guided Trip with the MAC's Crew
Join one of the MAC’s guides for a day long adventure in Adirondack lake country! We will meet at 9:30 at MAC’s Canoe Livery in Lake Clear and check out the maps before heading out - we’ll choose a different trip every week. Pack your lunch. Bring your own boat $50 per person or rent a tandem canoe $75 per person. Advanced reservations requested, call ahead for trip details.
Thursday, June 6
Evening Kayak Tour
Join Adirondack Lakes and Trails Outfitters for a tour on one of their favorite Adirondack waterways. Meet at Adirondack Lakes and Trails at 5:15 p.m. Depart at 5:30. $25 per person. $35 to rent boat and participate. 518-891-7450.
Saturday, June 8
Water Safety Clinic
Join St. Regis Canoe Outfitters for a four-hour class designed to introduce people to safe handling of your canoe, launching & landing your canoe, and basic paddling strokes and maneuvers. Information on the paddling environment will include: wind, water, waves and weather. Rescue responsibilities will be discussed and basic rescues will be demonstrated. This course follows the curriculum of the American Canoe Association and is given by an ACA certified instructor. Maxiumum capacity eight participants. Cost $69 per person. 518-891-1838
Saturday, June 8
"Get Familiar with the Area" Paddling Trip for Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Members
The “Get Familiar with the Area” Paddling Trips are designed to introduce Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce members and their front-line tourism employees to what is available for outdoor recreation on the water in our back yard. This is a perfect opportunity to get your staff excited for the summer season! We will meet at MAC’S Canoe Livery in Lake Clear at 3:00pm and explore area waterways, we'll return back around 6:00pm. Each trip is limited to 12 people. Price is $25/per person and includes canoe rental and guide.
Sunday, June 9
Raquette River River Clean-up
Help clean up the Raquette River and Simond Pond in Tupper Lake. Meet at 1:30 p.m. at Raquette River Outfitters. Garbage bags and boats will be provided. Please be dressed appropriately and be ready to get dirty. 518-359-3228.
Monday, June 10
"Get Familiar with the Area" Paddling Trip for Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Members
The “Get Familiar with the Area” Paddling Trips are designed to introduce Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce members and their front-line tourism employees to what is available for outdoor recreation on the water in our back yard. This is a perfect opportunity to get your staff excited for the summer season! We will meet at MAC’S Canoe Livery in Lake Clear at 3:00pm and explore area waterways, we'll return back around 6:00pm. Each trip is limited to 12 people. Price is $25/per person and includes canoe rental and guide.
Tuesday, June 11
C-2 Paddling Clinic
Join 90-Miler Organizer Brian McDonnell of Mac’s Canoe Livery for a paddling lesson in a C-2 Stock Kevlar Boat suitable for the 90 Miler. We will get you ready! Meet at the Lake Flower Boat Launch. Clinic will run 5:30-7:00pm. $25 per paddler with your boat or $40 with ours. Advanced Reservation Required.
Wednesday, June 12
Guided Trip with the MAC's Crew
Join one of the MAC’s guides for a day long adventure in Adirondack lake country! We will meet at 9:30 a.m. at MAC’s Canoe Livery in Lake Clear and check out the maps before heading out - we’ll choose a different trip every week. Pack your lunch. Bring your own boat $50 per person or rent a tandem canoe $75 per person. Advanced reservations requested, call ahead for trip details.
Wednesday, June 12
History of the Adirondack Voyageurs
Join Brian McDonnell, Mark Kurtz and other Voyageurs for a 40th anniversary discussion of the Voyageur Treks program of the Association of Adirondack Scout Camps. The Café at Nori’s Village Market. 7 p.m.
Thursday, June 13
Evening Kayak Tour
Join Adirondack Lakes and Trails Outfitters for a tour on one of their favorite Adirondack waterways. Meet at Adirondack Lakes and Trails at 5:15 p.m. Depart at 5:30. $25 per person. $35 to rent boat and participate. 518-891-7450.
Friday, June 14
SUP Festival
Kick off the 2019 summer season at the Adirondack SUP Festival on Lake Colby with a great weekend of SUP (stand up paddleboard) inspired activities for the entire family. $. 518-891-7450.
Saturday, June 15
SUP Festival
Kick off the 2019 summer season at the Adirondack SUP Festival on Lake Colby with a great weekend of SUP (stand up paddleboard) inspired activities for the entire family. $. 518-891-7450.
Saturday, June 15
"Get Familiar with the Area" Paddling Trip for Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Members
The “Get Familiar with the Area” Paddling Trips are designed to introduce Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce members and their front-line tourism employees to what is available for outdoor recreation on the water in our back yard. This is a perfect opportunity to get your staff excited for the summer season! We will meet at MAC’S Canoe Livery in Lake Clear at 3:00pm and explore area waterways, we'll return back around 6:00pm. Each trip is limited to 12 people. Price is $25/per person and includes canoe rental and guide.
Sunday, June 16
SUP Festival
Kick off the 2019 summer season at the Adirondack SUP Festival on Lake Colby with a great weekend of SUP (stand up paddleboard) inspired activities for the entire family. 518-891-7450.
Monday, June 17
"Get Familiar with the Area" Paddling Trip for Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Members
The “Get Familiar with the Area” Paddling Trips are designed to introduce Saranac Lake Area Chamber of Commerce members and their front-line tourism employees to what is available for outdoor recreation on the water in our back yard. This is a perfect opportunity to get your staff excited for the summer season! We will meet at MAC’S Canoe Livery in Lake Clear at 3:00pm and explore area waterways, we'll return back around 6:00pm. Each trip is limited to 12 people. Price is $25/per person and includes canoe rental and guide.
Monday, June 17
Full Moon Paddle
Meet us at MAC’s Canoe Livery for a moon lit paddle under the stars. Listen to the loon serenade. We supply the boats and the ambiance – the rest is up to you! Cost: $50 per person - Advanced Reservations Required.
Tuesday, June 18
Team Paddling Clinic/Upper Saranac Lake Tour
Paddle in a 4- or 8-person canoe with the MAC’S Canoe Livery crew. We’ll meet at MAC’s Canoe Livery in Lake Clear, then explore Upper Saranac lake. Clinic will run 5:30-7:00pm. $40 per paddler boats included. Advanced Reservations are Required
Wednesday, June 19
Guided Trip with the MAC's Crew
Join one of the MAC’s guides for a day long adventure in Adirondack lake country! We will meet at 9:30 a.m. at MAC’s Canoe Livery in Lake Clear and check out the maps before heading out - we’ll choose a different trip every week. Pack your lunch. Bring your own boat $50 per person or rent a tandem canoe $75 per person. Advanced reservations requested, call ahead for trip details.
Wednesday, June 19
Paddling Alaska Brooks Range & the Alaska Nat'l Wildlife Refuge
First by small fixed-wing, then by foot and paddle, Scott McKim will give a slideshow about his 120-mile trip through one of America's last remaining wildernesses. Bitters and Bones. 7 p.m.
Thursday, June 20
Yoga for Paddler's Clinic
Join St. Regis Canoe Outfitters at 73 Dorsey Street - Riverwalk. Learn yoga poses that are helpful prior to and after paddling to increase strength and muscular endurance while reducing the risk of injury and restoring balance. 5-7:30 p.m. Free event. 518-891-1838
Evening Kayak Tour
Join Adirondack Lakes and Trails Outfitters for a tour on one of their favorite Adirondack waterways. Meet at Adirondack Lakes and Trails at 5:15 p.m. Depart at 5:30. $25 per person. $35 to rent boat and participate. 518-891-7450.
Friday, June 21
Summer Solstice Paddle through the Saranac Lakes
Join us for an epic adventure on the longest day of the year! We will meet at Mac's Canoe Livery at 8:00am - then put in on Upper Saranac Lake and make our way through the Saranac Lake Chain, down the Saranac River, into Oseetah Lake and finish at Riverfront Park on Lake Flower. Bring your own boat $50 per person; Take a seat in one of Mac’s Kevlar C4 (four paddler) canoes for $75 per person. Advanced Registration Required. Call for trip details.
Saturday, June 22
Women's Clinic
Join St. Regis Canoe Outfitters for a Women's Clinic: Double-bladed paddling for solo canoe paddlers. This four-hour class is designed to expose women to safe handling of your double paddle solo canoe, including basic paddling strokes and maneuvers. We encourage you to bring your own boat. Please register early if you need to use one of our boats. Maximum capacity is eight participants. Cost $69 518-891-1838
Sunday, June 23
Saranac River Clean Up
St. Regis Canoe Outfitters will be organizing a river clean-up with the assistance of the Adirondack Lakes and Trails, Wiley’s Flies, and the Northern Forest Canoe Trail. Canoes with be provided. Please bring water shoes and appropriate clothing. Work gloves will be provided. Meet at Dorsey Street Parking Lot at 1 p.m. Free. 518-891-1838.
Tuesday, June 25
C-2 Paddling Clinic
Join 90-Miler Organizer Brian McDonnell of Mac’s Canoe Livery for a paddling lesson in a C-2 Stock Kevlar Boat suitable for the 90 Miler. We will get you ready! Meet at the Lake Flower Boat Launch. Clinic will run 5:30-7:00pm. $25 per paddler with your boat or $40 with ours. Advanced Reservation Required.
Wednesday, June 26
Naturalist Interpretive Paddle
Join St. Regis Canoe Outfitters for a paddle on Second Pond. Bring your own canoe/kayak. Meet at State Bridge off state Route 3. 9-11 am. Rentals available at additional cost. $20. 518-891-1838.
Wednesday, June 26
Guided Trip with the MAC's Crew
Join one of the MAC’s guides for a day long adventure in Adirondack lake country! We will meet at 9:30 at MAC’s Canoe Livery in Lake Clear and check out the maps before heading out - we’ll choose a different trip every week. Pack your lunch. Bring your own boat $50 per person or rent a tandem canoe $75 per person. Advanced reservations requested, call ahead for trip details.
Wednesday, June 26
Hamlets to Huts presentation
Joe Dadey of Adirondack Hamlets to Huts will give a broad overview of the Hamlets to Huts effort, including trail development and lodging options. St. Regis Canoe Outfitters. 7 p.m.
Thursday, June 27
Evening Kayak Tours
Join Adirondack Lakes and Trails Outfitters for a tour on one of their favorite Adirondack waterways. Meet at Adirondack Lakes and Trails at 5:15 p.m. Depart at 5:30. $25 per person. $35 to rent boat and participate. 518-891-7450.
Saturday, June 29
Kids Paddling Clinic
Join St. Regis Canoe Outfitters for a kid's paddling clinic for ages 5 and older. Great opportunity for your child to expand their paddling skills and gain both confidence and respect for the water environment. This class teaches children outdoor and paddling skills while having fun exploring the natural environment. Must be accompanied by an adult. Option to bring your own boat or borrow one of ours. Early registration required if you need to use one of our boats at no additional cost. Maximum capacity is six children. Cost $55 per child. 518-891-1838.
Sunday, June 30
Celebrate Paddling Invitational
Canoe, kayak, guideboat and SUP paddling races for all abilities: youth, novice and marathon. Race distances are one, three and 12 miles. Start and finish on Lake Flower. This race is organized by Adirondack Watershed Alliance, which runs the 90-Miler. Consider this your invitation! Registration starts at 9 a.m. Races start at 10 and 11 a.m. Entry Fee: $25. 518-891-2744
